Segerstrom gets a lift from teammate Israel Escobedo, who continues fight with leukemia

Segerstrom footballl player Israel Escobedo cheered on the Jaguars Friday night. (Photos courtesy Mark Bausman, For OC Sports Zone).

Segerstrom’s football team was cheered on by teammate Israel Escobedo who provided a lift to his teammates during Friday night’s game with El Modena.

To see the slide show, please click on the first photo

Israel Escobedo (No. 5) joined his teammates charging out onto the field Friday.

Israel Escobedo (No. 5) joined in the celebration after Friday's game.

The junior linebacker is battling leukemia and will be out of football this season, according to Coach Joseph Tagaloa. But he was at the game and joined in the celebration after the game, including a team picture.

Segerstrom rallied to defeat El Modena 19-14 to improve its record to 3-0.

“OJ (Escobedo’s nickname) was there last night on the sideline,” Tagaloa said Saturday. “He appears to be doing well. He was all smiles last night.

“Before the season we decided to dedicate everything we do to him and his battle off the field. (The team’s) effort was definitely motivated by OJ’s presence. “

OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT FOR SEGERSTROM LINEBACKER BATTLING LEUKEMIA

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com